This guide explains how to specify, install, and pass inspection with a Recessed Edge-Lit Exit Sign – Stair, 8" Red Letters for Chicago-code projects. It’s written for contractors, architects, and code officials—plain English, no fluff. View the product: Recessed Edge-Lit Exit Sign – Stair, 8" Red Letters. Explore more models in Edge-Lit Exit Signs and Chicago-Approved Exit Signs.
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Picks
What it is
- Recessed edge-lit EXIT/STAIR sign with 8" red letters for Chicago visibility.
- Trim-flush aluminum frame; floating acrylic legend; single or double face.
- UL 924, damp-location; EM option up to 120-minute backup (see spec).
Where it shines
- Stair towers & corridors that require 8" red STAIR or EXIT legends.
- Drywall & T-bar ceilings needing a clean recessed look and easy service from below.
- Design-forward interiors where a bulky box would distract from finishes.
Related collections
Overview: Recessed Edge-Lit Exit Sign – Stair, 8" Red
The CARELZXTE recessed edge-lit sign pairs a precision-extruded aluminum housing with a UV-stabilized, silk-screened acrylic panel. It recesses into drywall or T-bar ceilings so only a slim trim and the floating legend are visible—ideal for modern interiors. White LEDs edge-light the legend for crisp, uniform visibility. For runtime, select the EM version and verify 90 vs. 120 minutes per your submittal. Product: Recessed Edge-Lit Exit Sign – Stair, 8" Red • Spec sheet: CARELZXTE (PDF)
Illumination & Panel
- Edge-lit LEDs deliver even, glare-free illumination across the EXIT or STAIR legend.
- 8" red letters meet Chicago visibility expectations; silk-screened, UV-stabilized acrylic resists yellowing.
- Single or double face is field-selectable so one SKU covers multiple sightlines.
Why it matters: big 8" letters + uniform lighting make the sign easy to read in low-light or smoky conditions—exactly what inspectors want to see.
Electrical & Battery Backup
- 120/277 VAC input (plugs into standard building power). A status light shows charge; the push-to-test button runs a quick check in seconds.
- 4.8 V Ni-Cd (EM) provides up to 120 minutes of emergency illumination—30 minutes beyond the typical 90-minute baseline.
- Solid-state transfer flips to battery instantly (no flicker); two-rate charger restores full charge in about a day.
- EM input (typical): ~4.5 W / 0.042 A @ 120 V • ~4.9 W / 0.020 A @ 277 V.
Why it matters: fewer callbacks, simpler monthly/annual tests, and a cleaner pass during inspections.
Mounting (Recessed) & Arrows
- Recesses into drywall or T-bar ceilings; bar hangers included to level and square the chassis quickly.
- Optional WM trim kit supports recessed wall mounting where required.
- Self-adhesive chevrons for field arrow configuration: none, left, right, double, or left/right.
Housing & Trim
- Extruded aluminum body and detachable trim; service from below ceiling for battery replacement.
- Finishes: white or natural aluminum to match ceiling palettes.
Listings, Warranty & Chicago Notes
- UL 924 emergency listing; damp location rated (0 °C – 50 °C).
- Meets NFPA 101, NEC, OSHA; CEC Title 20 efficiency.
- Chicago-focused details: 8" red letters, metal construction, plenum considerations (verify per project submittal).
- Warranty: 5 years on electronics/housing; 5-year prorated on battery.
Compare with Alternatives
| Type | Best For | Look & Profile | Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recessed Edge-Lit (CARELZXTE) | Chicago stairs; design-sensitive ceilings | Trim-flush, floating legend | Minimal visual impact | Needs ceiling cavity & cutout |
| Surface Edge-Lit (Aluminum) | Where recessing isn’t possible | Slim canopy + clear panel | Versatile mounting | Visible canopy/box |
| Surface Edge-Lit (Thermoplastic) | Value installs | Slim plastic housing | Budget-friendly | Plastic housing not Chicago-approved |
| Photoluminescent | No-power retrofits | Opaque glow face | Zero energy | Needs charging light; not for dim areas |
Install Steps (Ceiling Recess)
- Layout & cut-out: Mark per template; confirm bar-hanger span and plenum clearance.
- Set the chassis: Secure housing level with bar hangers; micro-tip: aim trim parallel to corridor lines—your eye catches small misalignment.
- Power: Pull 120/277 VAC; land conductors; cap unused leads; follow NEC and spec sheet.
- Battery (EM): After constant AC is present, connect Ni-Cd; confirm status LED.
- Face & arrows: Configure EXIT/STAIR; set single/double face; micro-tip: wipe panel, then apply chevrons last for straight, clean bond.
- Trim & test: Attach trim; press push-to-test; document the initial inspection.
AHJ Quick Checklist
- Legend set: STAIR (or EXIT), 8" red letters
- Arrow direction applied: none/left/right/double (matches plan)
- Recessed in approved ceiling (or WM kit for wall)
- Emergency runtime verified (90 vs. 120 min) and test logged
- Spec sheet attached to submittal package
Real-World Scenarios
- Chicago stair enclosures: 8" red STAIR with arrows to the enclosure; recessed to keep ceilings clean.
- Lobby-to-stair transitions: EXIT with double arrows at the corridor feeding the stairwell.
- Tenant corridors: trim-flush look preserves sightlines; EM version provides extended coverage.
Visuals & Explainers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CARELZXTE approved for Chicago?
Yes. It is UL 924 listed, meets City of Chicago signage/plenum requirements, and complies with NFPA 101, NEC, and OSHA.
What mounting is supported?
Recessed in drywall or T-bar ceilings; the optional WM trim kit supports recessed wall mounting.
Does it provide battery backup?
EM models include a 4.8 V Ni-Cd battery that provides up to 120 minutes of illumination during power loss (check spec).
What arrow and legend options are available?
EXIT or STAIR, with field-applied chevrons: none, left, right, double, or left/right for clear wayfinding.
Can it be serviced from below the ceiling?
Yes. The aluminum body allows below-ceiling access for battery replacement and maintenance.